The maturing artificial turf industry is facing a challenge - hundreds (soon to be thousands) of artificial turf fields are scheduled to be replaced annually and there is a dire need to a good recycling option. Currently the artificial turf carpet is either being re-purposed for landscape use, which isn't a long term solution, or sent to a landfill. We want you to help us research and potentially trial various methods of recycling the product and maximize its value.

Artificial turf is comprised polyethylene fibers, polypropylene backing with polyurethane coating. By weight the composition is 62% polyethylene, 11% polypropylene and 22% polyurethane.

The selected team to lead this project will be given a further brief on some of the industry challenges such as the geographical footprint and economic considerations.

To accomplish this, we believe you should focus on:

• Researching methods for plastics recycling (literature review).
• Discussions with polymer science experts.
• Interaction with potential plastics recycling companies.
• Further develop the economic model of field removal and associated recycling costs.

Final deliverables include:

• A written report explaining potential recycling strategies.
• A 10-minute product pitch presentation.